Great review! I've had my ADI for about a week now and I'm blown away by the sound and versatility of this unit. It's basically an outstanding headphone amp, DAC, and DSP all in one box. The only downside for me was the steep learning curve. The factory reset option came in handy a few times - ha!
Do not believe such statements that adi-2 dac "PERFORMS better" Than pro version. Adi-2 pro is flagship and have TWO chips, the cheaper version of it is Adi-2 dac, where they removed ALL AD features and make it simpler for hi-fi users. Basically it is the same, with the same performance, junior model in adi-2 line with different hp input layout. Do not believe that someone somewhere said it is better, but where? The answer is simplicity. Rme has always been a pro gear company, it is not surprise that their pro dac hits the 1st place in hi-fi world, rme are Germans and they won't do a cheaper model a better one and more hi-end. It is a fairy tale otherwise.
I've always thought the digital spectral analyser on the ADI-2 was a lovely aesthetic feature and is really recognisable in photos and product shots. There's something nostalgic about seeing VU meters and spectral analysers on audio equipment, even if they're presented on an LCD screen.
I agree. I love it too! It's also quite fun seeing the frequency spread of different recordings where older jazz tracks might roll off pretty fast at both ends while modern tracks are active end-to-end on the spectrum.
Very nice review of the ADI-2 DAC! Technically, it really has 7 bands of PEQ though.... the treble and bass knobs can be custom EQ'd as well (though more limited frequency range). I initially bought mine for a DAC preamp of an electrostat rig, using stereo speaker amp (NAD C275BEE) into Mjolnir SRD-7 estat transformer to drive STAX compatible estats. The PEQ, crossfeed, balance adjustment, analyzer display, and USB implementation were the main factors in my getting it for estat setup. Also ran it as preamp for stereo speaker setup using same NAD amp, and it was beautiful in that role as well. ADI-2 DAC worked very well with my modded STAX SR-L300 Limiteds (L700 pads & headband + sealed pads with blutac), SR-404 Limiteds, Nectar Sound, and Kaldas Research RR-1 Conquest, where it's clean, precise sound did help. For my dynamics headphones though, I didn't like it as much using the onboard amp... specifically Denon/Fostex biodyna driver ones - neutral reference amps are simply not good pairing for them for my preference... too thin sounding and lacking in low end presence - I liked warm, powerful SS amps with biodynas. Eventually sold estat gear along with all estats, then ended up pairing the ADI-2 DAC with a hybrid tube amp (Garage 1217 Project Ember II)... Now that really awakened things with the biodyna's - REALLY good sounding especially once the right tubes were matched to them (which would be a Mullard 6201, Sovtek 6H30Pi, or Reflector 6H23n-EB). An amp with tubes is absolutely the way for me with the RME ADI-2 DAC... clarity and detail is kept, but also smooth the treble a bit and gain some extension, plus get that separation, 3D spacial presentation, and live feel which tubes do so well. As of now actually have 11 bands of hardware EQ because have Schiit Loki with the ADI-2 DAC... LOL RME ADI-2 is best value that can be had in a DAC... like you said, it's so powerful in what it can do, don't think there is any other DAC out there that has it's capability at any price point. Sound wise though, I did generally prefer the Gustard X20U I had until just recently for its overall smoother, more fluid sound along with better low end presence. It just didn't have the clarity and quite the detail of the ADI-2 DAC. X20U was just sold to coworker after I demoed his Gold Planar GL2000 and ifi Zen Can amp with it for 5 days ... made for a very good pairing and he was looking for a balanced DAC to run into the ifi Zen Can.
Thanks for the detailed comments! I think you've demonstrated really well that each product has its place and use case. Not all products work well in all situations.
I just bought this for the neutral sound everyone says it has. You convinced me. I've been shopping around for awhile, watched all the reviews, listened to the experts and I believe this is what I'm looking for. I'll be using it as a preamp mostly, not too much headphone use. I miss visualizers and UV meters in systems too, I was a child of the 70's and 80's, so that's kind of cool too. I usually don't eq, but they are fun to mess with. I really hope I like it. I've been using my AVR for movies and 2 channel for a while, it's a good sounding system with a separate amp for my fronts, but not like 2 channel. I am finally going to have a true 2 channel system again, YES! Thanks for you're very detailed and informative video, very professional, articulate and to the point. BTW I paid $1150 us
Hi Eric, I agree about the enjoyment of the visualisations - it brings a nice charm to the system. I hope you love it too - it seems to be a DAC that speaker users prefer vs headphone users so hopefully you'll love it!
Your video might just be the fairest appraisal of this unit that I have seen. I use the PRO FS-R version as a preamp - it switches to the TV TOSLINK input automatically when I turn the TV on, a feature that no reviewer has mentioned - mode switching by input sensing. The 32-tone intermodulation test result is very clean too, in answer to the accusations of music being more than a simple sine wave. I'm surprised that audiophiles review this unit, they usually prefer the warmth given by distortion.
Thanks John. I'm glad you found it to be fair. As for audiophiles preferring distortion, that's not really accurate. There are some very clean measuring devices that sound great (Geshelli Labs Erish / J2) and sometl that sound souless and dry (Drop THX 789, SMSL SP200). There's more to it than we seem to be able to measure at this stage because I'm yet to see a set of measurements that can accurately predict the listening experience.
I have two of these units. You can preamp the output to another headphone amp and run most headphones as a result. The dac is excellent with lots of features. It’s headphone stage is wow outstanding and low noise floor.
Hi. I currently have an RME ADI-2 DAC - can you put the Chrord M-Scaler with the RME DAC? How big an improvement in SQ would that give? Was thinking of upgrading the RME to a Chord Hugo TT2 and then saving up for an MScaler later on. But maybe I'd getter faster improvements by adding the MScaler to the RME and then later on upgrading the RME to a TT2? Any views?
Hi Nicholas, I don't have an ADI-2 here anymore (it was a loaner), but my experience with other similar quality DACs would suggest that you'll get good improvements with the M-Scaler. Whether the TT2 or the M-Scaler is the better first step is hard to say. If you're using the onboard ADI-2 amp, the TT2 will give you a bigger jump I think. If you're using an external amp, the M-Scaler might be the best bet
@@PassionforSound hey man thank u for your time i swap out the hdv820 for the hifiman ef500 gave me better sound on the vocals while watching movies i have the hel 2 plus dac amp it sounds the same as the hdv820 i would of past out if i did not return the hdv820 i also just picked up the dan clark e3 i feel so much better now ''
I absolutely love how functional it is. Both the DAC and AMP section sounds super clean (compared to my old Burson Conductor), and the PEQ + Tone controls with remote is heaven for someone like me who likes to make small adjustments and don't wanna rely solely on software solutions.
I just sold Burson conductor 3r that I used with 32 ohm lsa hp 2 headphones so I never really needed that extra power of Burson . I'm trying to decide what to get next maybe this RME or aune s9c for best dynamic and clean sound with strong bass ....
That sweater is ridiculous. But I agree with your review. What you didn't get into is the "Loudness" or equalization features of the RME when comparing sound. I've found that the ADI-2 fs sounds WAY better than the Chord when you actually use the tone controls/DSP equalization.
Hi Antonio, I'm not a user of EQs or loudness controls so I didn't want to get into detail about something I'm.not well-versed in. Sorry you don't like the sweater 😉
Amir over at ASR uses this to direct drive his Levinson / Revel system. He told me he went thru about 40 DACs and this was his fav for sound quality but he doesn't use the gadgets (his words). Must sound really good I guess
It's definitely a nice DAC. I personally think you can do better for the money (or less), but I listen with headphones, not speakers and that does make a difference.
You are the first RU-vidr that could articulate what I heard on my RME DAC, it has some harshness in the 1-4khz range, where no matter what, I can't EQ it out without losing clarity, and it has some harshness in ~8k range I don't like that, and you can't EQ it out with 7 band EQ onboard of that DAC BUT...sound stage is pulled back, like the source is further back. Compared to my Saffire Pro 40. I am returning RME DAC, because I don't see the level of perfection that is claimed by RME on this one. It's a solid unit, but not 1299 USD worth, imo.
@PassionforSound Thank you for detailed video, it was kind of painful to watch, knowing I hear the same thing, but expected heaven coming out of the speakers with RME. I ordered a FET compressor. I want to try something as a last resort. I will run output from RME into 2 channel compressor and see if I can change the harshness by more low end nature of FET transistors and Jensen transformer in mine. FET compressor types darken and color the sound, so it might directly "eq" that harshness out, and it does have De-Esser. We shall see! 😁 In fact, SMSL SU-9 Pro sounded much better in the low end, and sound was way more dense and detailed.
That's really interesting. I've never heard of FET compressors before. I'm guessing it's essentially a physical compressor that works in the same way as software compression in audio editing suites?
Thx for this wonderful detailed yet engaging review of the ADI-2. Three questions: 1. How much colouration can you add with EQ vs a separate warmer amp? 2. How does the build in amp sound with the Focal Clear and do you advice that combo to start with? As the Focal Clears is a bit coloured and also sounded ok with the THX789 I recollect. 3. Are the outputs on the back (balanced and unbalanced) divided? So can you attach a set of speakers and headphone amp and do individual settings on both? Thx :)!
Hi Gerard, glad you liked the review. Here are some answers (although I don't have the ADI-2 here anymore as it was a loan unit): 1) an EQ can add a little colouration or a heap. An amp shouldn't really add anything more than a touch of character (e.g. smoothness) 2) the inbuilt amp is pretty neutral so it will sound great with the Clears. 3) from memory, both rear outputs are split, but you might want to confirm with RME before buying
I love me RME ADI 2 FS. The onboard PEQ is outstanding. Its a great sounding DAC. So many great inclusions: PEQ (Independent channel control), IEM/SE amp, XLR and RCA outputs, variable loudness, pre and post monitoring, balance control!, preamp volume, selectable gain, it goes on and on...... The RME ADI 2 is easily the best DAC in its price range. Very clean sounding, so if you are looking for R2R richness - best to look elsewhere, or partner with richer sounding amplification or valves etc.
Hi Stephen, the feature set is unparalleled, isn't it? I do think some DACs best it for realism and overall SQ, but nothing comes close for controls and versatility!
@@PassionforSound awesome. The hifi game is so subjective, what works for one, maybe doesn’t for another. I also listen via a Firstwatt F7 to my speakers, which does help make the sound more enjoyable. :) I just noticed, it seems we are neighbours. Maybe I’ll see you around sometime. I’m curious, have you compared the RME to the latest topping d90 MQA.
Hi Stephen, yes, system synergy, music tastes and personal preference all play a huge part! Are you a fellow Melbournian? I did try the D90 MQA (actually only just sold it) and I slightly preferred it's sound to the unadjusted ADI-2, but it has nowhere near the ADI-2's functionality.
@@PassionforSound Yes, South East Suburbs. Interesting feedback. The RME has no equal when function and sound quality is weighed collectively, But..... features like EQ, which I believe are highly valuable (possibly mandatory in many circumstances) can easily be done in Roon (or similar), via convolution or PEQ filters. But.... IMO, the onboard hardware DSP sounds better v;s software. In any case I'll be looking to move my RME ADI 2 to a desktop position soon (and out of my listening space), as I look to grab an Okto DAC8 Pro for a custom DIY active speaker setup using Roon software crossover/room filters. Should be fun.
I tend to agree about the potential quality of the DSP from software and hardware, but I guess it all depends on the devices/software too. Sounds like you're putting together a really nice setup! Enjoy! I'm also south east (Bayside) so it's quite likely we'll cross paths at some point, particularly if the Melbourne HiFi Show is ever able to happen again.
The other difference is that PEQs not only allow peaks. There are also low/high shelf settings (and more you won't need), that increase the low or high end of the entire spectrum starting at a set frequency. Combined with peaks, it allows for extremely smooth manipulation
Can you tell something about which filter settings you used in the comparision between the RME and the Chord? If the treble sounds a little bit too sharp for you, maybe a "slow" filter setting on the RME will sound better to you.
Hi Faltze, I used the default SD Sharp on the ADI-2 and the Incisive Neutral filter on the Qutest. I deliberately stuck with these because they are kind of the default for each device straight out of the box. I did try the other filters on the ADI-2, but they don't have enough impact to change my findings in the comparison.
Other than the obvious adjustability of the RME ADI-2 and all in one unit, could you make a sonic comparison to the simplicity of Denafrips Ares ll r2r Thank you very much for your time and thoughts. BTW............ great reviewer!
Hi Jerry, glad you like the reviews! The Ares II is a much smoother and more spacious sounding DAC, but it's also a bit slow and lacking resolution compared to the hyper-resolving ADI-2. To me, these two products are at opposite ends of the apectr with the ADI-2 being fast, forward and ultra-resolving. The Ares II is a bit slow, laidback and a touch smoothed over. Both have their benefits for certain music and certain setups, but I prefer something between the two like the Burson Composer or Schiit Bifrost 2.
Has the best remote of any of the volume DACs. Has cool locking power input and you can use an AQ fig 8 cord into the step down box. Better value than Benchmark DAC3. Amir told me this was his SQ pick out of his 35 DACs and I see why.
It's definitely got some great features, but I disagree with Amir on the sound quality front. It's very good, but not the best IMO, but that's with headphones and speakers may be different, not too mention system synergies
Great video. Very well explained. Question: can the RME ADI-2 DAC FS be used as a preamp into a power amp for 2-channel audio through main speakers? Is there simultaneously signal in both the balanced and RCA outputs (so I can use the balanced interconnects for the main speakers and RCA outputs for subwoofers)? Is the output voltage level high enough to be able to drive power amps to their rated outputs? Thanks.
The DAC will only take digital inputs so you're good on that note. As for the outputs - both RCA and XLR run concurrently so all good there and the output voltage is highly adjustable so you can tweak it to exactly what you need for the amps you're using.
I never particularly recommended the ADI-2 unless someone needed all of its sound controls. If you're looking for a great DAC/amp combo, I'd consider something like the Chord Hugo 2, HiFiMan EF600, etc.
I agree with the etched treble, I purchased ADI2 for my HD800, just couldn't tame the treble without EQ, heard it with my IEMs too. Along with that, I feel using the RME purely as a dac/amp for headphones lacks some dynamics and detail, (mainly vocals). Both headphone and IEM output showed the same results. Its a great unit, well built using quality parts but perhaps over-engineered to be purely a top-performing dac/amp combo.
eLicky yup completely agree with the treble. Grainy. And the soundstage is quite flat. Not much depth at all. Has a wide soundstage tho. But my Marantz DAc kinda walks all over it. Much more realistic timbre on the instruments. Returned mine quite fast as it didn’t wow me at all.
I'm very interested in having a Dac with EQ functionality.. I never use PC->USB for my headphones but 100% DAP. I have a few cans that I'd like to experiment with EQ'ing (LCDX) but I'm wondering how easy it is to customize eq profiles and set variants for listening. Maybe it would be easier to be able to program it via pc and then be able to save each profile.
16:35: "It's about the things that happen faster than 20.000 times a second". I found this remark interesting but also kind of confusing. What do you mean specifically? I am not an audio engineer, not even close, so I am very likely wrong here, but that's why I'm asking. If we're talking about a regular CD type of medium, nothing really happens faster than 22050 cycles per second, except aliasing. So I'm wondering what you mean would be in the last 2050 kHz of frequency band we have left (20-22,5 kHz) that would be important for texture cues? This is what I'm confused about. Because wouldn't that information be reproduced by all D/As? We have 2 samples for every cycle in the CD format and we are dealing with an inherently bandlimited signal right? I was thinking you might be referring to "hi-res" music but then again I don't really understand, the same would apply and all D/As would be reproducing those texture cues even higher up the spectrum?
Hi David, what I'm referring to there is not the frequency of the sounds because we can't hear about 20kHz (or less in most cases). It's more about the subtle tonal changes, leading edges of notes (like when a guitar is strummed) that are all constantly shifting and changing within the music. Now, whether I should technically say these things happen 'faster than 20,000 times per second' is questionable, but the point being that most DACs are designed to account for the audible frequency ranges which are predictable and constant (20Hz - 20kHz) and less so for the textural nuances of the music which shift constantly. So far I've found the Chord and Schiit Multibit DACs handle this information better than any of the traditional Delta Sigma DACs I've tried. I'm hoping to add some higher end R2R DACs to my review list in the future to see how they fare.
Hello from Greece very good detailed review I am your new follower, I have quite good active speakers (adam tensor beta) along with (antelope zodiac gold) which is old I want to upgrade which one would you suggest in between REM ADI-2 FS, IFI IDSD PRO OR DENAFRIP PONTUS thank you from the bottom of my heart Tolis
Hi Tolis, I haven't yet heard either the Pontus or iDSD Pro, but I would expect the Pontus and iDSD to be better than the ADI-2. It will then come down to the type of presentation you like: smooth and spacious (Pontus) or more neutral (iDSD)
You have to be careful about hyping products. Yes, the ADI has lots of features, but how can you legitimately compare it to all possible dac/amp options up to $2000? People who are looking for the ADI's specific features will find it only in the ADI, for better or worse. So many of your videos hype that it's really hard to separate your excitement for a product from objective assessment. I really don't understand how you can make an argument that the ADI is "the best" for under $2k when you're not directly evaluating every single product under that price.
Hi Hector, I asked the question, but I don't think I ever definitively suggested it was the best because I actually don't believe it is on all counts. For the features it has - as you say - it's unbeatable, but for pure sound quality I think there are a number of better options. Sadly, the RU-vid algorithm (and people's natural curiosity) favours titles and thumbnails with a provocative question, but I don't believe I ever proclaimed it as being the best - just posed the question.
Really a very ideal unit for those who have common headphones (and if I've wanted harder to drive headphones, maybe just add bigger amplifier, to connect it to) and love iem's. Really have wanted this unit, be great to have it. Excellent review..👍🏼
Thanks Joshua. Yes, it's really a perfect unit for anyone into audio and will happily drive most headphones to a pretty good sound quality. Connect a good external amp and you're approaching endgame territory.
The Matrix Mini-i 3 Pro is a nice choice. I've also got the new FiiO R7 coming in very soon for review. There are no doubt many more options, but they are two I have good awareness of (and experience with in the case of the Matrix)
@@PassionforSound I already have a Cambridge audio EVO 150. I’m looking for something like a DAC I can connect to the burson and stream from my iPhone too over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth… something like SMSL VMV D1se would that work?
I don't know the VMV to comment. Are you wanting just the convenience of Bluetooth or would you like to go for a Wifi connection with a UPnP type setup for access using Qobuz, Tidal, etc.?
Just watched this video and... My damn wallet is on fire again, your killing me bro! lol, Great review, This has always been my endgame dac, and as high as I ever wanted to go, Thank you for the great review of it....as my finger hovers above the place order screen on my phone!!! Cheers
This is now at 1100.00 in the US. Would you still say this is one of the best if not the best at this price point in January of 2021? Thanks in advance.
Hi Michael, while it seems to be very popular with speaker users (I'm all headphones these days), I personally found both the Schiit Bifrost 2 and Chord Qutest to be better. The ADI-2 is the only DAC with the kind of controls and adjustments it offers though
Hey there, I've said this later in the review and have a full comparison video coming out soon... In short, the ADI-2 is far more flexible than the Qutest, but I believe the Qutest is the better sounding unit by a small margin.
ADI-2 is probably the best audio device I've ever had. It sounds great, however, just replaced it with Denafrips Ares 2. Hype turned out to be real, the difference is very significant in sound quality. Sadly Denafrips USB driver is garbage, so I have to run USB-Optical converter. both run thru Soloist 3xp w Sparkos
Hi PMM, I haven't tried the Pontus yet, but the Ares and ADI-2 are like polar opposites. The ADI-2 is all sharp edges and resolution, while the Ares is all about space and smoothness at the cost of resolution. I personally think both products go too far in their respective directions.
One thing no one really talks about is how is the quality of Adi-2 FS’ preamp if used to drive active speakers directly vs a separate dac and preamp combo. This is another important assessment of this all-in-one unit.
Hi Isaac, it's a good question and something I do with units like this myself. Driving active speakers should be comparable to an external headphone amp so everything I said about the qualities of the DAC will stay true for using it to drive actives. The control available for all outputs is really helpful too because you can customise the sound going to your actives. Just beware that the XLR and RCA outs are combined in the output settings as "line out" so you can't have one customised for actives and the other for an external headphone amp.
Waiting for this one to arrive together with my new a90 - should drive my Aryas much better than the Fiio M15 I'm using right now! Your video definitely helped me choose this one!
@@etin97 purely for sound and power, the a90 hands down - plus I like a clean signal. But if you like eq and a plethora of options, the adi is really the better option
I'd second this. The ADI-2 internal amp is comparable to the Drop THX AAA 789 amp. The A90 is noticeably superior to the 789 and therefore the ADI-2 as well. ADI-2 is great for an all-in-one, but the A90 has a lot more space dedicated to pure amplification and nothing else.
I love the Parametric EQ, the dac filter options and the Crossfeed funktion on mine, and it's not complicated to use at all once you learn how it works, German engineering at its best, and I highly recommend it.
I'd personally choose the Burson Composer because I think it's a slightly better sounding DAC, but if you need the ADI-2 features, it will go just fine with the Soloist
Again, thanks. What's you recommendation for a DAC around A$1000? I have 2 very nice headphone amps, so I would rather spend the $ on a DAC only w/o HP Amp. Much appreciated.
Hi Corey, definitely the Schiit Bifrost 2 is my favourite DAC around that price. The Soncoz SGD-1 is also impressive, but doesn't have the depth of soundstage that the Bifrost 2 offers.
Thank you for the most thorough, detailed and helpful review of the RME so far. I hope you'll get the chance to review the Burson Composer 3x Dac to compare. Your wonderful review of the Burson soloist convinced me that the sololist will be my next amp. I wonder if the Burson dac+amp stack is a better choice than mixing the soloist with the RME or the Schiit Bifrost. The visual mismatch is probably what keeps me from deciding :)
Hi Astro, I need to follow up with Burson because they had some stock shortages late last year. I would probably choose the Burson over the ADI-2 even without hearing the Composer, but the Bifrost 2 is a different question and it's very hard to beat! Hopefully I can provide definitive answers soon...
@@PassionforSound Yes, thank you - I've watched both these excellent reviews. Largely because of your reviews, I bought the Meze Elites and Soloist XP and am very happy. I guess the obvious choice of external DAC would be the Composer XP which looks very good, but just shopping around in the maze of sub-$2000 DAC's is bewildering! Great channel and content...IMHO, you should have many more subs...am sure you will get there!
Thanks Marc! The Composer is a lovely DAC for sure. There are some other gear choices depending on budget, but you can't go too far wrong with the Composer for sure
Hi Lachlan, Just wondering what would a great headphone to go with the RME for someone who listens to orchestral music? For the price range of $500 to $800. Many thanks.
I'd probably recommend the HiFiMan Edition XS, HiFiMan Ananda or Verum 1. I've just completed a review including all these (focussed on the Edition XS) so sit tight for a thorough set of comparisons very soon!
I've never had both together, but they're in pretty different leagues. The E50 is great fit the price, but it didn't match the other more expensive DACs I've tried it against
Can you go out of Mac book pro thunderbolt 3 / USB 3 into USB B and still get full hi res? I see some units only give full res via optical. I want to go straight into USB and out headphones into a Drawmer MC3.1. Do I need to go out XLR? It the headphone out lower quality than out RCA's or XLR?
I don't use Macs so I can't test this, but they should provide full hi-res via USB. It's likely a system setting is required to enable an unaltered output.
I've not compared the two inputs, but it will depend somewhat on the quality of the USB source you're using too. Optical is always a safer option because it will isolate any sources of noise from up the chain.
Thanks for the review. I have an ADI-2 on order. If you are familiar with the Headamp GS-X mini, would that amp be good choice to use with the ADI-2, and would it be a significant improvement over the headphone outputs of the ADI-2 alone? Also, if you are familiar with the Sony TA-ZH1ES, how does the ADI-2 compare in sound quality?
Sorry Robert, I can't help with either of those from experience. From what I've heard/read, I'd expect the GS-X mini to be an upgrade from the ADI-2 inbuilt amp though.
Thank you and you're welcome! I'm looking into the Utopia at the moment. Just have to find a way to get a pair on loan because I can't afford to buy them 🙂
Thank you for your reviews .... much appreciated. I would really appreciate for those of us who have been out of the circuit for awhile and are interested in catching up and updating our systems so we can stream music ..... Can you give us some simple options / recommendations for the wiring a laptop into the system using the above mentioned DAC ?
@@PassionforSound Yes, thank you .... I now understand that I will need a USB C to a USB A cable to do that from my Macbook pro. Is the quality / brand of cable very important ? What would you recommend? I guess I could borrow the RCA cables from my CD player to then connect the DAC to my AUX connection of my Primare Integrated Amp. That should be all the need to get running well, correct ?
Some will say not to worry about USB cables, but I personally think they make a difference. I'm not sure who makes quality USB C to USB A cables, but maybe look at Wireworld, Supra and Oyaide to see if anything comes up. It's a minor improvement though so don't stress too much. After that, you can use your existing RCAs as you thought and can connect it to any input other than Phono (if it has one)
Rewatching the review again, It's been a while. Good review. I think in 2021 they changed DAC from AK4493 to ESS9028Q2M measures similar but the DAC will definitely have it's impact in sound, I think it will sound even more sterile, as I have already experienced by share of ESS sound through my LGV30 ESS9218P it was a solid device I still have it as a DAP but it has a lot of bright character to it, Mids esp. Lows are great. While my Schiit Modi AK4490 has a smooth sound. Now the AK4493 is only available on the ADI 2 PRO (it has 2x of them). Right now DAC FS is selling for $920+tax and PRO is for $1300+tax at Thomann. I'm debating on which one to get, the NOS filter on AKM chips in both ADI 2s is better as it gives that smooth sound. ESS doesn't have it and replaced with Brickwall filter. Next the RME guys are finally admitting their poor power supply and giving a ground option with 2/4Pro which is insanely expensive at $2000+ it has ESS chips and some more features etc.
Thanks for sharing this info. Yes, the version I tried was the original, AKM design. Sometimes the ESS designs can sound less aggressive though because they're such a different chip to work with and will force a completely new DAC stage design so the results are sometimes an improvement towards ESS and sometimes not 🙂
@@PassionforSound Oh I see,.. hm not sure how their tuning could be with new ESS design. But yeah one more piece of information now that you mentioned, RME had a patch wire during that AKM factory issue, basically they soldered a wire when they started using ESS chips. On ASR someone caught but no reply fro RME, they revised the board later on now. Thank you for reply !!
Hi Stefan, glad you liked the content! I believe it will be a large upgrade. I haven't tried the black label, but owned the standard iDSD for quite some time and the ADI-2 is on a very different level.
@@PassionforSound really great review there, bro. Keep it up. Thanks for response. You just made my mind even more focused on RME (after i manage to sell my Ifi). 👍
Which do you think has better all around sound for an all in one dac / amp...the RME ADi-2 or the Burson Composer 3(x)? Great video..thanks for sharing! I have the HiFiman Aryas and they are a little weak on bass so trying to figure if the Burson or the RME would be better...
If you're looking for DAC and amp, the Conductor is the one you want from Burson. As for which is better, that's tough. The ADI-2 has the EQ for the extra bass while the Conductor would require some op-amp rolling which is less precise and requires more experimentation. I would choose the Conductor in general, but that's not factoring in if you need EQ. If EQ is important then ADI-2 all the way. 🙂
@@PassionforSound - thanks for the info. Do you think the RME would be able to give enough bass to the Arya's without ruining the overall purity of the sound? Also, would the RME have enough power for the Arya's without being near max vol? Thaks again for your help and the time you put in making your great videos!
I can't answer the bass question because it really depends on how much you personally think is enough. As for power, the Aryas aren't as difficult to drive as people say they are. For normal listening levels and if you're not going crazy with the EQ, you should be fine.
Etched = Bright. That's a no from me then. My first DAC was an AudioLab MDAC with ESS chip. Was horrendous and gave me a headache. I will never buy another bright DAC again. I have a Metrum Acoustics Musette in my headphone system, will audition a Qutest for replacement.
Hi John, yes I would avoid the ADI-2 if edgy/bright isn't your thing. If the Qutest is still too bright (it shouldn't be) then the next step is the Ares 2 from Denafrips, but the Qutest is the better DAC IMO
@@PassionforSound Just an update for you. I did ultimately buy the Ares II. Excellent. I hope to replace that with May KTE later this year, but the Ares II is excellent - probably the best value for money DAC in our hobby.
One very important question. If I mix my music on this DAC,will the sound quality be the same if played on different speakers as I've herd it while mixing on it?
It will depend on the speakers and headphones you use for the mix, but I'm confident that the DAC won't be adding any colour (nor will the built in headphone amp)
Simply put, no. It's a very good DAC, but the differences between this and the Qutest aren't frequency related. They're about the entire design of the DAC from the chip used, the use of the in-built filters, the output stage, etc. It's good at all these things, but the Qutest just renders the sound more 3-dimensionally and with more refinement and note weight (not thickness, just presence). Unfortunately, none of these things can be adjusted with the ADI-2's settings based on my experience of it. It's still a great DAC though so I don't mean to knock it.
Hi Elected Music, it's hard to say because they're quite different products. The Quartet is more like the pro version of the ADI-2. For pure listening, I'd probably expect the ADI-2 to be better because it's focused 100% on D/A conversion whereas the Apogee goes both ways (A/D and D/A). That said, I haven't heard the Apogee so I can't say for sure.
After watching a number of your reviews - as well as a few others - I finally ordered one of these bad boys and just hooked it up! I’m sure I’m not using it to its fullest - and I definitely don’t have the ear that you do - but so far I have to say it sounds fantastic. (which is to be expected) - but really really good. I was coming from a Schiit Modi/Magni stack - so it’s a massive upgrade on paper - but it does seem to actually be multiples better. Like going from 1080p to 4k. It’s also just a nice piece of kit generally. Now have to figure out what to do w/ my old gear ... can’t decide if it makes sense to sell it or to keep it is backup or move to a different room for the occasional listening ... Anyways ... thanks for your videos and reviews! Cheers,
So glad I could help you make a purchase you're so happy with! Thanks for telling me. 🙂 As for the old gear, it's not a bad idea to keep a backup, but depending on the age of the Magni/Modi you could maybe get good money back on them and then buy something else later if you need it. It's always a tough call...
You can't on this version. I'm not sure how the Pro version works, but that it also an ADC whereas the consumer focussed version I reviewed is DAC only
Hi Alex, I reached out to Topping for that exact setup recently, but didn't hear back. I might try Shenzhen Audio and Hifigo next as they've supported the channel in the past.
Also perfectly timed, as I've just been looking to get one of these too! And I see that the comparison video for this and the Qutest has just come up. I'll have to leave that until tomorrow though, it's getting a bit late now.
@@PassionforSound Thanks! But I'm just interested to know what your impressions are. I'm already set on the ADI-2 over the Qutest. It has more functionality as a DAC, it's a headphone and IEM amp too, and it's much cheaper used on top of that. Plus, the looks of my equipment matters to me too, and between you and me, I've always thought that Chord's stuff are serious eyesores.
Ah, cool. All good that you've made your choice. I personally like the Chord designs, but I agree with you on every other point and I also really like the look of the ADI-2.
I appreciate the compactness of it as an all-in-one unit too. I'm impressed with how compact the Qutest is, but as just a DAC, that isn't as beneficial in itself; how it fits together with the rest of the gear is what matters, and in certain cases something bigger can end up being better!
Thanks for your review. Can’t wait for the comparison video with the Qutest as those are two main candidates for a DAC to be used with my Auralic Aries Mini
Hi Andrei, I know and I wish I could get them all for review. This was based on the DACs I see most often discussed so it was a little click-bait-ish, sorry!
I'm amazed that it was not highlighted , that the original AK chip has been replaced with a ESS chip. The effect of this is the option of Direct DSD is not now available. Why would we want DDSD ? HQPlayer - With filter options , modulators etc that will take the DAC to a new level of SQ- Far beyond the QUtest. Fortunately the RME-ADI-2 pro FS retains the AK chip , in fact there are 2 AK4493 chips installed.
That will generally mean that you're not getting a direct output to the DAC and that your operating system is resampling everything. See if your playback app allows you to select "Exclusive mode" for the ADI-2
@@PassionforSound awesome thank you, mainly using Apple Music which I think on the iPad allows to change per song but if knowledge serves on the desktop you pick a playback
Great channel ! Highly informative ! Especially since I’m new to the hi-end headphone game. I just ordered the LCD-X and I understand they benefit from EQing. Which brings me to this unit after after considering lots of others. I like all-in-1 and being able to easily move throughout house. Its about 95% my budget. 2 things though...While my hp are 20 ohm/103db and come SE anyway, Is the fact it’s not a “balanced output” a concern ? Not better ? Lastly is headroom when paired with the efficient LCD-X. audiosciencereview had it at 1.5 Watts driving in-efficient Ether CX 23 ohm/92db. Seems like it would be ok but again, I’m new. Still reading. Extensively. Thanks for a great channel !
Hi Evo, you should be absolutely fine to drive the LCDs with the ADI-2 in terms of power. And don't worry about balanced output as it's only real benefit is greater power delivery which isn't necessary here.
Thanks for that reply. Last question, I have a 2019 MacBook Pro, would it make more sense to buy just a quality amplifier and not spend the extra on a DAC ? I’ve heard I’d have to spend quite a bit of money to outdo the DAC already in my MacBook Pro.
I haven't heard the MacBook Pro, but it's an interesting question. The amp in the ADI-2 is quite good, but you'll be able to get a lot more performance out of the LCDs with an even better amp (it's not a question of power so much as resolution, etc.). You could look at something like the Chord Hugo 2 as a better all-in-one, but it won't give you the EQ options. Otherwise, you could start with a separate amp first and add a DAC later. Something like the Schiit Jotunheim 2 or Buson Soloist 3X would be great. Or the Burson Composer (their all-in-one DAC and amp) is another option.
I'm torn on having a screen/additional functions. I feel like I would be continually fiddling rather than enjoying the sound. Is it possible to setup profiles for eq etc so it's easier to move between different setups (headphones/preamp/?
I understand what you mean. I think I'd spend the first 2-3 weeks constantly playing till I got it "just right" and would then just leave it be. You can setup multiple different EQ presets and the settings are unique to each output so you could have an EQ for your line-out to active monitors and then a flat response for headphones (for example). The unit will switch automatically. It's really clever and powerful.
